Dentifrice Compositions Containing Calcium Silicate

Abstract

An oral care composition includes an effective amount of calcium silicate particles. The calcium silicate particles have an average diameter of less than about 5 microns, such that they can occlude dentinal tubules of the teeth. An oral care method includes applying the composition to an oral cavity of a subject to reduce or inhibit hypersensitivity of the teeth and to achieve other benefits.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION[0001]This invention relates to oral care compositions comprising dentin occluding particles and to methods of making and using such compositions.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION[0002]Dentin is a portion of the tooth internal to the enamel and cementum that has a radially striated appearance owing to a large number of fine canals or tubules known as the dentinal tubules. Tubules run from the pulp cavity to the periphery of the dentin and are generally about two microns in diameter at their base and somewhat narrower at their periphery. Tubules are not usually exposed to the environment in the oral cavity, as they are usually covered by enamel or cementum. The cementum in turn is often covered by the gums.[0003]It is commonly understood that partially or fully exposed tubules can lead to tooth sensitivity, an irritating and painful condition. In this theory, recession of the gum line exposes cementum to erosion. The eroded cementum in turn exposes the hollow dentinal...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The invention is a composition that can be applied to the mouth to reduce dental caries, repair pre-carious lesions, promote remineralization of teeth, reduce hypersensitivity, reduce gingivitis, promote healing of mouth sores or cuts, inhibit microbial biofilm formation, reduce plaque accumulation, whiten teeth, reduce erosion, promote systemic health, immunize teeth against cariogenic bacteria, and clean the mouth and oral cavity. Specifically, the composition can help reduce hypersensitivity of the teeth.

Problems solved by technology

It is commonly understood that partially or fully exposed tubules can lead to tooth sensitivity, an irritating and painful condition.

The exposed tubules cause nerves within the tooth to be affected excessively by external oral stimuli because material and energy transfer between the exterior and interior of the tooth is accelerated through the tubules.